Big plans for a small village

The tiny community of Wickrange is to undergo some big changes when work begins on a new multi-functional development later this year.

14.03.2012

(JB) The tiny community of Wickrange is to undergo some big changes when work begins on a new multi-functional development later this year.

Flats, offices, shops and an activity zone are among the features of the new development, announced earlier this week and planned for the rue des Trois Cantons.

In total the Master plan for the village, which had a population of just over 100 six years ago, covers a surface area of 78,000 square metres -the equivalent of nine and a half full-sized football pitches.

While the development has prompted criticism for its size in relation to the community where it will be constructed, it is an improvement on earlier plans.

Wickrange mayor Arthur Sinner explained that a proposal mooted in 2007 for a shopping centre failed because of its disproportionate size in relation to the location.

He said: “This new project will bring huge benefits to the commune, landlords and promoters because it has learned its lesson from the first master plan.

Indeed it will respond to the needs of residents, encouraging investment in local businesses and providing jobs at the same time.”

The site was strategically chosen because of its location on the axis between Esch-sur-Alzette/Luxembourg and Steinfort/Bettembourg.

The goal of the development is to work around the existing site and to integrate any buildings effectively with the surroundings. Construction is expected to begin at the end of this year.